Some students skeptical about Nzimande’s promises

Nzimande has stressed that the free data should only be used for educational purposes

Some tertiary students have raised concerns about promises made by the Department of Higher Education to assist learners with schooling when the South Africa enters level 3 of the coronavirus lockdown.

On Saturday, Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande announced that students will receive free data bundles for the next three months and some laptops to assist with online learning.

But some students from Siyabuswa, in Mpumalanga, says the Minister did not address all issues.

“I think our Minister didn’t mention a lot of details, he didn’t give much details because are we going to regain the two months that we have already lost. Some of the universities did receive the laptops but then as the TVET colleges we didn’t receive any,” says one concerned student.

Below is social media responses to the Minister’s briefing:

In the video below, students voice their concerns:

Return to campus

Minister Nzimande says only 33% of the student student population will be allowed to return to campuses, delivery sites and residences under Level 3 lockdown, which is expected to kick in from June 1.

Nzimande says the return will be on condition that the students can be safely accommodated and supported in line with the health and safety protocols as directed by the Department

The Minister says his department is committed to saving the 2020 academic year while also saving lives.

He says the Higher Education sector has adopted the theme “Save the Academic Year Save Lives.”